On April 5, 2025, Minematters Foundation brought its mission to life at the University of Benin in Nigeria through MindFest. This vibrant gathering united over 800 university students for a powerful experience centered on mental wellness, emotional expression, and community connection.

A Day of Purpose and Impact

MindFest was more than an event. It was the beginning of something transformational. Held on campus in collaboration with student groups and wellness advocates, the festival created a safe and uplifting space where students could explore their emotional well-being, learn new coping strategies, and incorporate mental wellness into their everyday lives.

The atmosphere throughout the day was filled with energy, learning, music, reflection, and moments of deep connection.

What Made MindFest Unforgettable

• Student-Led Experiences: Students led open discussions, performed powerful spoken word pieces, and shared personal stories about navigating stress, anxiety, identity, and purpose.
• Interactive Workshops: Topics included managing academic pressure, building healthy boundaries, maintaining emotional balance, and seeking support without fear or stigma.
• Support on Site: Mental health professionals were present to provide guidance, emotional check-ins, and real-time resources to those in need.
• Creative Expression: Music, poetry, and dance gave students the freedom to connect through culture and creativity, making mental health feel relatable and personal.

Why MindFest Mattered

In many university environments, students carry invisible struggles. MindFest created space for students to be seen, heard, and valued beyond academics. It shifted the tone on campus by opening up honest conversations and showing that emotional care is a strength, not a weakness.

One student said, “I didn’t know how much I needed this until I was here. For once, I felt like my feelings were allowed to exist.”

A Beginning, Not an Ending

MindFest at UNIBEN marked the launch of a larger movement. Through the Minematters Foundation UNIBEN Collegiate Chapter, students are continuing the work by creating peer support groups, planning future wellness events, and building awareness campaigns that will live far beyond the day of the event.

The response from students, faculty, and local partners confirmed what we already knew. Young people are ready to talk about mental health. They just need spaces where it feels safe, supported, and real.

How You Can Be Part of What Comes Next

The momentum from MindFest is only growing. You can help keep it moving forward by:

• Sponsoring future campus wellness events
• Partnering with Minematters to bring programs to more universities
• Volunteering or mentoring through the collegiate chapter
• Sharing this story with others who care about mental wellness in higher education

A New Generation of Mental Health Advocates

At Minematters Foundation, mental health awareness starts with conversation and grows through community. MindFest demonstrated that change is possible when young people are empowered, supported, and included in the healing process.

The students at UNIBEN showed us what is possible when minds come together for something meaningful. And this is just the beginning.